UPDATED: Powell Scores As England Duty Ends

Nick Powell and Max Clayton returned to the England U-17s starting line up today as the Lions roared to a 3-1 victory over their Portuguese counterparts.

Today's victory saw England win the friendly U-17 tournament hosted by The FA, which has been competed over the last week between England, Turkey, Australia and Portugal.

Young Alex goalkeeper Ben Garratt was unfortunate not to keep his place between the sticks having kept a clean sheet on Friday against Australia.

It was comfortable victory, with England storming into a 2-0 lead in the first half through Everton`s Hallam Hope. Nick Powell's work and cross set up Hope to power home the first on the 21st minute with Hope getting his 2nd of the afternoon just five minutes later with a lob over the keeper.

Nick Powell finished Portugal off with his second goal in as many games just after the half time break. A mazy run from the left flank inside the area finished with Powell firing home from a tight angle.

Powell's goal ensures that the Alex have been represented well over the course of the week for the young England side. Powell and Clayton have both heavily featured in all three matches over the last week whilst Garratt earned his England debut on Friday.

Whilst Powell was substituted on the 50 minute mark following Portugal's consolation goal from a free kick, Max Clayton completed the entire match.

Both Powell and Clayton came close to adding to England's score through the game but as much as anything the experience for the pair will be worth more than any goals.

With the friendly tournament now over, the Academy trio will now return to the Alex. Powell is now likely to return to first team action with the Alex next Saturday at Stevenage with a place on the bench awaiting.

Click here to join in the debate on the club forum.